Penicillin Cocktail

Scotch

Jan 1

Yield 1 drink

Author The Whiskey Rickhouse

Penicillin Cocktail

The Penicillin cocktail is a popular whiskey-based drink that was first created in the early 2000s by a bartender in New York City. It typically consists of blended scotch, lemon juice, honey-ginger syrup, and a float of smoky Islay scotch on top. The cocktail is known for its unique combination of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors, and its ability to cure a cold or sore throat due to the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and honey.

Ingredients

2 oz (60 ml) Islay Scotch whisky (such as Laphroaig)
3/4 oz (22.5 ml) honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey to water)
3/4 oz (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice
Ginger syrup (to taste)
Ice cubes
Candied ginger or lemon twist (for garnish)

Instructions

First, prepare the honey syrup. In a small saucepan, heat equal parts honey and water (1:1 ratio) over low heat. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved in the water. Let it cool, and then transfer to a bottle for easy use. This is your honey syrup.
Next, prepare the ginger syrup. You can use store-bought ginger syrup or make your own by combining equal parts ginger juice and simple syrup (1:1 ratio).
In a shaker, combine the Scotch whiskey, honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice. Add ice cubes to the shaker.
Shake the ingredients well for about 15-20 seconds. This helps chill the drink and properly mix the flavors.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Drizzle ginger syrup over the top. The amount can be adjusted according to your preference for spiciness.
Garnish the cocktail with a slice of candied ginger or a twist of lemon peel.